Workout Form & Good Eats- Training Smart

This week I have not used the weight machine much as my wrists have been sore and recovering. I did a small set with the guys to do some "grip testing" in an attempt to adjust the set up of the machine for better form. The problem with the Universal is the way the machine adjusts- seat height and position are simply notches - the adjustments are bell-curve incremental. I can't refine it to the perfect position which will give me perfect form. Dang machines.

What is interesting (although a bit demoralizing) is that with better position/form I am only benching 30lbs, not the 60 I thought I was up to. It never ceases to amaze me how much "better" you can perform with crap form (but not for long before injury takes you down!) Whenever I  reign in my runners' form they invariably slow down and then complain about how much faster they run "their" way. You may run a 1:35 Half, but how will your performance stand the test of time? Poor form over thousands of repetitions WILL take its toll. Training for life = sustainability and this is one of my top priorities.

The other challenge I am having is the weight plates are 10lbs each. This is fine for the guys, but for me it's a big jump when progressing any exercise, and i have to be careful with the reps:weight because I think I am pushing that a bit. For now I am back to my calisthenics workouts and appreciating how much core core core work I do! Here is my little 550+ workout last night. It kicked my butt at 10PM. This is my happy place. I have not done full side bridge dip inside/outside crunches in MONTHS and boy I don't remember them being that hard- perhaps my form has improved :)

I am going to wrap up this blog post and go for a run. It is so cool and lovely out.

Here are some nutrition snapshots from the past few days:
Sometimes a lucky client who works out with me in the gym is surprised post-workout to find an IHOP breakfast ready!
<--- Homemade Chia Buckwheat waffles with fruit, yogurt, cinnamon & cocoa, Blackberry syrup & whipped  cream. Yum.

This is my post workout meal from last night- colorful and balanced is exactly the way I like it! Pan fried ham with zucchini, (yes the sale ham is STILL feeding us, it froze well), homemade hummus & guacamole, salsa verde, egg salad, veggies & pita --->

Recovery meals are important. Remember to eat post workout- a balance of carbs and protein with a little fat, and WATER.

I am off to my wee 5K around the pond then back for administrative work before training this afternoon. Have a GREAT day everyone!